Are you a leader or a manager?

The title of this article sounds like a trick question – it would seem the answer should be “leader”. But have you ever thought about what a manager does? Managers set up the systems that allow the organisation to run smoothly and efficiently. They ensure budgets are followed, timelines are met, and employees are trained and engaged. Without managers, an organisation could not function properly. Of course there are bureaucratic and obstructive managers, just as there are abusive and destructive leaders, but in most organisations they are in the minority. Managers, therefore, are just as valuable to organisations as leaders are.